Planning for a Smoky Mountain vacation? There’s no question that the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is one of America’s most popular destinations year-round. But what’s the best time visit the Great Smoky Mountains? That depends on what you’re looking for in a vacation.
The Best Time to Visit the Great Smoky Mountains
For those looking for warmer temperatures and the most opportunities to enjoy the great outdoors, summer is the best time to visit.
But the park is great any time of year. If you’re after stunning views and cooler temperatures, autumn is definitely the way to go. If you’re looking for fewer crowds and more wildlife sightings, spring might be a better option. And if you want to take advantage of lower hotel rates and enjoy some festive activities, winter could be your perfect season! Whatever time of year you choose, Great Smoky Mountains National Park is sure to enchant and amaze you. And one of the best parts of all is that entrance to the park is COMPLETELY FREE! Here are some things to do in the park and some of the great activities nearby.
Visiting Great Smoky Mountains National Park in Summer (June – August)
Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a great place to visit in the summer months. There are plenty of things to do, including hiking, biking, fishing, and picnicking. The park also has an abundance of wildlife, so be sure to keep an eye out for deer, bears, and other animals. In addition, Great Smoky Mountains National Park is home to some of the most scenic views in the country. So whether you’re looking for an active vacation or a chance to relax and take in the scenery, Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the perfect summer destination.
In June, the weather is warm and pleasant, making it ideal for exploring the park’s many trails. July and August are the busiest months, but they also allow you to take advantage of the long days and warmer temperatures to enjoy all that the park has to offer. However, even during the peak season, Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a great place to unwind and escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
The highlight of the park is a visit to Clingman’s Dome. At over 6,600 feet, Clingmans Dome is the highest point in Smoky Mountains National Park. It’s also the third highest mountain east of the Mississippi River. It’s a great place to visit for the view or as the starting point for several of the park’s trails. The observation tower will give you sweeping 360 degree views of the surrounding mountains. On a clear day, the view can be as far as a hundred miles. Because of the elevation, be prepared for temperatures that can be as much as 20 degrees Fahrenheit colder than in lower elevations. The area can also be crowded during the busy season, which includes both summer and the fall foliage season.
And don’t miss Cade’s Cove. For a taste of the history of the area and some of the settlers who inhabited what is now the park, a visit to Cades Cover is a must. Here you’ll find a valley lush with valley full of wildlife, including white-tail deer, black bears and coyotes. The area is also home to three old churches, barns and a working mill, all remnants of the early 19th century settlers. There are abundant opportunities to see both the natural beauty and history that make the park so special. An 11-mile one way road encircles the area. You can take it at your own pace and pull off to explore or for pictures. The area is very popular, so make sure you plan to avoid crowds if possible.
If you want to get out of the national park, there are also some great things to do near the park in the summer.
4th of July Parade and Fireworks
The Gatlinburg 4th of July Parade and Fireworks is a must-see event for anyone visiting Gatlinburg during the Independence Day holiday. The parade features floats, marching bands, and local celebrities, and it culminates with a spectacular fireworks display set against the backdrop of the Great Smoky Mountains. spectators will find plenty of photo opportunities throughout the parade route, which winds its way through the heart of downtown Gatlinburg. So whether you’re looking for a festive way to celebrate America’s birthday or simply want to take in the sights and sounds of a small-town parade, be sure to check out the Gatlinburg 4th of July Parade and Fireworks.
Great Smoky Mountain Hot Air Balloon Festival
Every year, hundreds of hot air balloons take to the skies over the Great Smoky Mountains for the annual Great Smoky Mountain Hot Air Balloon Festival. For five days, spectators can enjoy the sight of brightly colored balloons floating over one of America’s most beautiful landscapes. In addition to hot air balloon rides, the festival also offers live music, food trucks, and a variety of other family-friendly activities. Whether you’re a fan of hot air balloons or just looking for a unique way to experience the Great Smoky Mountains, the Great Smoky Mountain Hot Air Balloon Festival is definitely worth a visit.
If you’re looking to avoid crowds in the summer, you’re most likely out of luck. You can visit during the week, but even then, you’re likely to run into crowded roads and trails.
Visitors
| Month | Park Visitors (2021) |
| June | 1,539,247 |
| July | 1,730,987 |
| August | 1,398,161 |
Weather
| Month | Average High | Average Low | Precipitation |
| June | 73.3° F | 53.1° F | 6.75 inches |
| July | 75.6° F | 56.7° F | 7.17 inches |
| August | 75.4° F | 55.9° F | 5.72 inches |
Visiting Great Smoky Mountains National Park in the Fall (September – November)
Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a stunning destination any time of year, but it is particularly beautiful in the autumn months. The leaves of the trees change color, creating an unforgettable landscape. In some years, the park sees the most visitors of the year in October to see the foliage. As the leaves begin to change color, the park comes alive with vibrant shades of red, orange and yellow.
To make the most of your visit, head to Clingman’s Dome Road and Newfound Gap Road. Here you’ll get expansive views of the mountains. They’re a great choices for take in the varied colors that stretch far into the distance. It’s also a great place for pictures. Always be mindful, of course, that temperatures at higher elevations can be as much as 20 degrees colder than at lower elevations. At lower elevations like Cades Cove, the peak season is usually a week or two earlier than higher elevations like Clingmans Dome.
If you’re looking for a more leisurely experience, take a ride on the Great Smoky Mountains Railway, which offers fall foliage tours from Bryson City, North Carolina. The historic railway winds its way through the heart of the mountains, offering breathtaking views of the colorful leaves. As you chug along, you’ll also learn about the history of the region and get a glimpse into the daily life of the people who live there. The trip takes about four hours, and along the way, there are opportunities to get out and explore the countryside. The Great Smoky Mountain railway is a great way to experience the beauty of nature and create some lasting memories.
In addition to the park’s famous foliage, there are also plenty of other activities to keep visitors busy, including hiking, fishing, and horseback riding. Fall is also a great time to go camping in the park. The cooler temperatures make for more comfortable sleeping conditions, and during September and November there are fewer crowds than in the summer.
If you’re looking for a more relaxed way to enjoy the national park in autumn, consider taking a scenic drive. The 11-mile loop road through Cades Cove is especially popular for its abundant wildlife and stunning views of the Great Smoky Mountains.
There are also some great things to do outside the national park in the fall.
Oktoberfest at Ober
What could be better than spending an autumn day in the Smoky Mountains of Tennessee, enjoying Oktoberfest at Ober Gatlinburg? Oktoberfest at Ober is a celebration of all things German, with traditional Oktoberfest foods like sauerkraut and bratwurst, as well as live music and dancing. The Oktoberfest Biergarten features over 30 different types of beer, including local craft brews and imported Oktoberfest beers. There’s also an Oktoberfest Parade, a Dachshund Derby, and much more. Whether you’re looking for festive fun or simply a great way to experience the beauty of fall in the Smokies, Oktoberfest at Ober Gatlinburg is sure to please.
Gatlinburg Winter Magic Kickoff
Gatlinburg Winter Magic Kickoff is an annual event that signals the start of Gatlinburg’s winter season. The Gatlinburg Winter Magic Kickoff celebration includes the lighting of Gatlinburg’s skyline, a parade down Parkway, live entertainment, and much more. Gatlinburg’s Winter Magic is a time-honored tradition that dates back to the late 1800s when Gatlinburg was first settled. The Gatlinburg Winter Magic Kickoff is a must-see event for anyone visiting Gatlinburg during the winter months.
In the fall, you’ll find cooler temperatures, but still sizeable crowds. Here are the numbers.
Visitors
| Month | Park Visitors (2021) |
| September | 1,355,599 |
| October | 1,633,547 |
| November | 1,155,227 |
Weather
| Month | Average High | Average Low | Precipitation |
| September | 71.4° F | 50° F | 6.38 inches |
| October | 63.8° F | 40.8° F | 4.89 inches |
| November | 52.5° F | 32.1° F | 7.6 inches |
Visiting Great Smoky Mountains National Park in Winter (December – February)
Great Smoky Mountains National Park is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the United States, and for good reason. The park offers a plethora of activities and attractions, from hiking and camping to fishing and bird watching. And while the park is beautiful in any season, there’s something special about experiencing it during the winter months. From December to February, the park is transformed into a winter wonderland, with snow-capped mountains and frozen waterfalls.
In the winter, visitors can enjoy cross-country skiing, sledding, and snowshoeing in and near the park, or simply take a leisurely hike through the woods. And no matter what activity you choose, you’re sure to find breathtaking views around every turn.
For the best cross-country skiing, try Clingman’s Dome Road. The 7-mile road leads to the parking lot of Clingman’s Dome, the highest point in the park. Although it’s busy in the summer, the road is closed to traffic from December 1 through March 31, so you’ll have it all to yourself. If you want to go all the way to Clingman’s Dome, be prepared for a steep half-mile climb to the observation tower from the parking lot. Other roads, such as Newfound Gap Road are open year-round, weather permitting. Check with the National Park Service in advance.
Near the park, you can try out skiing, snowboarding, and tubing at several resorts in the area. One of the closest is the Ober Gatlinburg Ski Resort. There you’ll find 9 ski trails, tubing, and an indoor ice skating arena.
A little further away is the Cataloochie Ski Area, in Maggie Valley, North Carolina. They have 14 slopes and plenty of room for tubing. Here you’ll also find a restaurant, lounge, and ski shop.
It’s also the least crowded time of the year in the park. In January and February, you’ll find only a third of the visitors you’ll find during the high season.
As for weather, you’ll still find temperatures that will average in the low 40’s in the winter, although temperatures at higher elevations will be lower.
So whether you’re looking for an adventurous getaway or a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life, Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the perfect place to be this winter.
In addition to skiing and tubing, there are plenty of ways to enjoy your visit to the park by taking in some of the local traditions.
Gatlinburg Fantasy of Lights Parade
Every year, Gatlinburg hosts the Fantasy of Lights Parade, one of the most spectacular holiday events in the Southeast. The parade features floats adorned with thousands of twinkling lights, as well as some of Santa’s reindeer, who trot down the Parkway to the delight of children and adults alike. The highlight of the parade is always the appearance of Santa himself, waving to onlookers from his sleigh. The Gatlinburg Fantasy of Lights Parade is a cherished tradition that brings holiday cheer to locals and visitors alike.
New Year’s Eve Celebration and Fireworks Show
If you’re looking for a fun and festive way to ring in the New Year, look no further than Gatlinburg, Tennessee! The Gatlinburg New Year’s Eve Celebration and Fireworks Show is an annual event that draws visitors from all over the country. The celebration kicks off at midnight with spectacular fireworks display set to music. Gatlinburg is known for its incredible views, and there’s no better place to watch the fireworks than from one of the many mountainside overlooks. After the fireworks, stick around for live music and entertainment on the main stage. There’s also an outdoor ice skating rink, food vendors, and more. Whether you’re looking for a big party or a quiet night in, Gatlinburg is the perfect place to celebrate the start of a new year.
If you’re looking to avoid crowds, February is the month that sees the least visitors for the entire year. You’ll find the coldest temperatures in January.
Visitors
| Month | Park Visitors (2021) |
| December | 856, 808 |
| January | 525,801 |
| February | 502,459 |
Weather
| Month | Average High | Average Low | Precipitation |
| December | 43.7° F | 24.9° F | 6.48 inches |
| January | 40.5° F | 21.9° F | 7.38 inches |
| February | 43.9° F | 24.2° F | 6.56 inches |
Visiting Great Smoky Mountains National Park in Spring (March – May)
Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a stunning destination any time of year, but it really comes to life in the springtime. From March to May, the park is alive with colorful wildflowers, soothing waterfalls and bustling wildlife. Here are just a few of the ways you can enjoy Great Smoky Mountains National Park in the springtime.
In March, the park’s dogwoods begin to bloom, painting the landscape with shades of white and pink.
April brings warmer temperatures and more blooms, including rhododendrons, mountain laurel and azaleas. This is also a great time of year to see wildlife, as animals are active after a long winter. Keep your eyes peeled for black bears, deer, elk, wild turkeys, and songbirds. Spring is also an ideal time for hiking, as the trails are free of snow and ice and the temperatures are comfortable. Some of the best hikes in Great Smoky Mountains National Park include Clingmans Dome Tower Trail, Cades Cove Loop Trail and Rainbow Falls Trail.
No matter what your interests, Great Smoky Mountains National Park has something to offer in the springtime. So come on down and enjoy all that this beautiful place has to offer
Smoky Mountain Music Festival
The Smoky Mountain Music Festival is one of the most prestigious music festivals in the country. Dedicated to promoting the best in Americana music, the festival attracts some of the biggest names in the genre. Previous lineups have included headliners such as Emmylou Harris, Steve Earle, and John Prine. In addition to featuring world-renowned musicians, the Smoky Mountain Music Festival is also known for its stunning setting. Nestled in the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains, the festival provides attendees with a truly unique experience. Whether you’re a die-hard music fan or simply looking for a fun-filled weekend getaway, the Smoky Mountain Music Festival is sure to fill your needs.
Pigeon Forge Rod Run
The Pigeon Forge Rod Run is one of the most popular car shows in the country. Every year, car enthusiasts from all over the US descend on Pigeon Forge, Tennessee to show off their classic cars and enjoy a weekend of fun and relaxation. The Pigeon Forge Rod Run began in 1986 with just 50 cars, but has grown exponentially in recent years. Now, over 3,000 cars are on display at the Pigeon Forge Rod Run, making it one of the largest car shows in the world. In addition to the huge selection of cars on display, the Pigeon Forge Rod Run also features live music, food trucks, and a variety of vendors selling everything from car parts to clothing. Whether you’re a die-hard gearhead or just looking for a fun weekend activity, the Pigeon Forge Rod Run is sure to please.
The spring sees increasingly warmer temperatures with still-manageable crowds, making it an ideal time to visit the park.
Visitors
| Month | Park Visitors (2021) |
| March | 931,060 |
| April | 1,169,469 |
| May | 1,363,183 |
Weather
| Month | Average High | Average Low | Precipitation |
| March | 51.5° F | 29.6° F | 6.69 inches |
| April | 61.5° F | 36.9° F | 5.65 inches |
| May | 67.5° F | 45.3° F | 6.61 inches |
